Unit Size Research Articles

EVCS Demand Management using Multi-Objective Power Flow Analysis with Renewable Distributed Generators

Abstract The optimal placement and sizing of multiple distributed generator units in strategic locations are essential for effective energy management of Electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) in modern power systems. This study aims to minimize power losses, optimize Renewable based Distributed Generator (RDG) sizing, and reduce fuel costs of conventional generators while also considering the impact on voltage stability by using multi objective Newton-Raphson (NR) power flow method. Two meta-heuristic multi-objective Grey Wolf Optimizer (MOGWO) and Multi-Objective Differential Evolution (MODE) techniques have been merged with NR power flow analysis. In this paper two scenarios are analyzed: the base case under normal conditions and with EVCS where the load is increased by 1.1 times the base load. The results demonstrate that the MOGWO approach outperforms the MODE method, yielding more favorable outcomes in both scenarios. Notably, the MOGWO method results in smaller RDG sizes compared to MODE in both normal and EVCS loading conditions. Transmission losses are reduced by 68.12% under normal conditions and by 72.7% under EVCS loading conditions with the MOGWO approach. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been evaluated using MATLAB software on the standard IEEE 57-bus system. Additionally, the base case results have been compared with other algorithms, including SCA, DA, NSGA-II, and MOCS, to validate the performance of the proposed MOGWO approach.

Compact dual-band filter using hybrid transition-free spoof surface plasmon polaritons and substrate integrated waveguide

In this paper, a new hybrid transition-free spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs)-substrate integrated waveguide(SIW) unit is used to design a compact dual-band filter. Benefiting from the combination of the H-shaped unit and the bilateral T-shaped unit of the proposed hybrid unit, the inherent two-stage wave vector matching is provided to achieve momentum and impedance matching. Thus, the proposed transition-free SSPPs-based filter does not require SSPPs transition units, making the circuit size reduction largely. Moreover, the high-order mode (Mode 1) of the transition-free SSPPs transmission units will not be suppressed by the stopband between the fundamental mode (Mode 0) and Mode 1 of transition-free SSPPs transition unit, making it possible to design a dual-band filter based on Mode 0 and Mode 1. In addition, the cutoff frequency of the filter can be controlled by the geometric size of the hybrid transition-free SSPPs-SIW unit. To verify the design theory, a compact dual-band filter with operating frequencies of 4.4 GHz − 5.6 GHz and 9.0 GHz − 9.6 GHz is designed and fabricated. The simulated results are in good agreement with the test results, indicating the feasibility of the proposed structure and design method.

Spatial joint hazard assessment of landslide susceptibility and intensity within a single framework: Environmental insights from the Wenchuan earthquake.

To comprehensively assess regional landslide hazards, we propose a geospatial approach that jointly evaluates both the probability of occurrence (susceptibility) and potential destructive power (intensity) within a single framework, overcoming the limitations of previous studies that treated these two disaster scenarios independently. Focusing on the largest landslide event triggered by the Wenchuan earthquake in China, we collected landslide occurrence and count data at the slope unit level, alongside 18 environmental factors, including seismic data. To enable this multi-hazard single-framework evaluation, we employed two Bayesian spatial joint regressions: the spatial shared component model (SSCM) and the spatial shared hyperparameter model (SSHM). This joint assessment focuses on three key components: identifying shared influencing factors, capturing shared spatial autocorrelated random effects, and jointly predicting susceptibility and intensity maps. Additionally, we enhanced the traditional absolute intensity index into the relative intensity by accounting for slope unit size. Both Bayesian SSCM and SSHM, incorporating multiple environmental drivers (seismic, topographical, geological, hydrological, and human activities), successfully evaluated landslide susceptibility and intensity under a single analytical frame. SSHM outperformed SSCM in terms of model fit and predictive accuracy, as revealed by cross-validation. While SSCM overfitted the landslide distribution of spatial autocorrelated random effect, SSHM provided a smoother, more spatially diverse representation. Both models consistently identified slope as the shared key factor influencing susceptibility and intensity, with the top four additional environmental factors varying slightly but all related to seismic activity. The concurrent susceptibility and absolute intensity maps produced by both models exhibited similar patterns, while relative intensity mapping identified new high-hazard areas within smaller slope units that were previously overlooked by susceptibility and absolute intensity. We established a Bayesian-based single modeling framework for joint hazard assessment and prediction of regional susceptibility and intensity, providing a cutting-edge geospatial paradigm for multi-objective hazard assessment in global environmental disaster management.

Design of miniaturized and polarization insensitive frequency selective surface filter with large band ratio

In this paper, a miniaturized and polarization insensitive frequency selective surface filter with large band ratio (BR) is presented. This structure consists of one metal layer and two dielectric layers. The metal layer includes two parts, with the outer square loop providing a lower frequency stopband and the inner pattern providing a higher frequency stopband. The structure has excellent miniaturization characteristics, in particular, the unit size is only 0.054λ0 and the thickness is only 0.014λ0, where λ0 is the wavelength corresponding to the first resonant frequency. Additionally, there is only one layer of metal layer, which greatly reduces the processing complexity and cost. The measurement results show that for TE and TM polarization, the center frequencies of the two stop bands are 2.03 and 18.98 GHz corresponding to a BR of 9.35. It can be used as a spatial dual frequency filter with large frequency band separation. In addition, the proposed structure also possesses advantages such as wideband response, polarization insensitivity, and high angle stability. The simulation results are in good agreement with the measured results.

MScanFit and StairFit Motor Unit Number Estimation of the Extensor Digitorum Brevis and Abductor Digiti Minimi Muscles.

MScanFit and StairFit are two motor unit number estimation (MUNE) methods derived from a compound muscle action potential (CMAP) scan. This study aims to compare MScanFit and StairFit MUNE values by applying both methods to the same muscles. CMAP scans were recorded from the extensor digitorum brevis (EDB) and abductor digiti minimi (ADM) muscles. MUNE was performed using the MScanFit and the StairFit programs. Twenty healthy subjects (30.1 ± 6.6 years; 11 males, 9 females) participated in the study. The MScanFit and StairFit MUNE values were 79 ± 35 and 63 ± 20 for the EDB muscle, and 124 ± 33 and 80 ± 20 for the ADM muscle, respectively. The StairFit MUNE was significantly lower than the MScanFit MUNE (p < 0.05 for EDB, p < 0.01 for ADM). The different results for MScanFit and StairFit MUNE are likely due to the different strategies used by the two methods. Serial studies are needed to further compare their performances in tracking motor unit number and size changes.

Various Control Charts to Monitor the Quality of Resistant Cement Production in the Kabaisa Cement Factory for the Year 2023

Control charts are an effective tool for statistical control of production quality processes by drawing samples from the production randomly and at specific time periods. In this research, different control charts were used for the purpose of monitoring the quality of resistant cement production in the Kubaisa Cement Factory, which is located in Al - Anbar Governorate. The weights of bags of cement (resistant cement) (which are measured in kilograms) were monitored using a new packing device, and after monitoring production for a period of (50) days in the months of November and December for a sample size of (5) units per day. The data was recorded on a regular and continuous period, , and the quality of production was examined by applying deferent statistical control charts . these charts are the arithmetic mean chart, the range chart, the standard deviation chart, the moving average chart, the Geometric Moving Average(GMA) chart . and Individual-Moving Range chart .The charts were applied using the statistical program (Minitab), and the results showed that the most of the charts were in control, with some notes.

The unit size effect on chocolate consumption: How to make consumers eat less? (The unit size effect on chocolate consumption).

Understanding the impact of environmental stimuli, such as nudges, on consumption behavior is crucial for developing effective dietary interventions. This study investigates the unit size effect, a behaviourally-oriented nudge, on chocolate consumption. In particular, it examines how different unit sizes and the presence or absence of packaging influence the quantity of chocolate consumed and the perceived energy intake in grams and calories. The research contributes to the theoretical framework of nudge theory, particularly the concept of unit bias, which suggests that larger units lead to higher consumption volumes. The novelty of this paper lies in its exploration of the combined effects of unit size and packaging and healthy lifestyle on consumption behavior, a relatively under-researched area. The methodology involved an experiment with four focus groups, differentiated by health-consciousness, who were provided with chocolate in varying unit sizes and packaging conditions. The data from the experiments were subjected to a three-way repeated measures ANOVA (RM-ANOVA) model. The results indicated that larger unit sizes significantly increase consumption compared to smaller units, regardless of packaging. This demonstrates that unit size has a greater impact on consumption than packaging, reinforcing the power of unit bias. The health-conscious participants consumed a markedly lower quantity of packed chocolates and exhibited a tendency to significantly overestimate the amount consumed, suggesting that those who are health-conscious may be more conscious of their diet. The findings support the effectiveness of behaviourally-oriented nudge marketing tools in influencing consumption behavior without altering consumer knowledge or emotions.

Exploring Architectural Units Through Robotic 3D Concrete Printing of Space-Filling Geometries

The integration of 3D concrete printing (3DCP) into architectural design and production offers a solution to challenges in the construction industry. This technology presents benefits such as mass customization, waste reduction, and support for complex designs. However, its adoption in construction faces various limitations, including technical, logistical, and legal barriers. This study provides insights relevant to architecture, engineering, and construction practices, guiding future developments in the field. The methodology involves fabricating closed architectural units using 3DCP, emphasizing space-filling geometries and ensuring structural strength. Across three production trials, iterative improvements were made, revealing challenges and insights into design optimization and fabrication techniques. Prioritizing controlled filling of the unit’s internal volume ensures portability and ease of assembly. Leveraging 3D robotic concrete printing technology enables precise fabrication of closed units with controlled voids, enhancing speed and accuracy in production. Experimentation with varying unit sizes and internal support mechanisms, such as sand infill and central supports, enhances performance and viability, addressing geometric capabilities and fabrication efficiency. Among these strategies, sand filling has emerged as an effective solution for internal support as it reduces unit weight, simplifies fabrication, and maintains structural integrity. This approach highlights the potential of lightweight and adaptable modular constructions in the use of 3DCP technologies for architectural applications.

A Highly Hardware Efficient ML-KEM Accelerator with Optimised Architectural Layers

The Module-Lattice-Based Key encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM) scheme, which is currently being standardized, is a quantum attack resistant KEM that is based on CRYSTALS-Kyber. CRYSTALS-Kyber is the only Public-key Encryption (PKE)/ KEM scheme selected in the first set of successful candidates as part of the NIST initiated Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) process. ML-KEM scheme includes three different security levels, namely security level 1, 3, and 5. In this research, we propose a highly area-time efficient hardware ML-KEM architecture. The architecture comprises three computational layers. The first layer comprises a hash and sampling module; the second layer includes a number theoretic transform (NTT), its inverse (INTT) and a point-wise multiplication (PWM) module; and the third layer comprises addition, compressing and encoding. Intra-layer pipelining and out-of-layer scheduling ensures that either layer 1 or layer 2 operate in the shortest time. In the reduction module, we propose a novel hybrid architecture to obtain the final result within 2 cycles with low area consumption. In the NTT module, the PWM pipelining method is modified and an optimised iterative FIFO access method is adopted to reduce the size of FIFO units by 55% over previous research. Look-up tables are also used to replace the first-stage of the NTT to reduce 8 cycles. Furthermore, the memory unit uses only FIFOs, the size are optimised based on the requirements of the most resource-intensive function in ML-KEM (ML-KEM.CPA.Dec). The results show that the proposed architecture 48.2%, 41.2%, and 78.1% reduction in computational time in comparison to previous work for security level 1, 3 and 5, respectively. In addition, the area of proposed optimised ML-KEM designs is reduced by 73%, 70%, 76% and resulting in an improved area-time (AT) product of 15.8%, 10.7%, and 11.3%, for the Level 1, 3 and 5 security levels respectively, compared with state-of-the-art designs.

Material Investigation and Effect of Printing Orientation, Tensile Speed, and Density on the Mechanical Behaviour of 3D Printed Parts

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is becoming one of the main manufacturing sources in most fields, due to its easy manipulation and time, and cost savings. It is the most favourable manufacturing technology for prototyping, unit or limited production size, and personalized objects. However, the AM's most common problem found is the lack of material information due to the different printing parameters and different materials. The fused deposition modelling (FDM) is the mostly used AM technology since it is the cheapest and easiest manufacturing technique. This technology has various materials and printing parameters that affect the mechanical properties. Multiple types of research were made on the effect of the different printing parameters, other on the material properties, and few worked on the effect of different materials. In the scope of our work, the effect of the printing orientation on different materials and the effect of varying the density on the mechanical behaviour are investigated. Moreover, the FDM part’s mechanical behaviour is still on investigation. We investigated the effect of tensile tests with different speeds on the specimens to analyse this behaviour. For this purpose, we printed different tensile specimens with different materials, printing directions, and densities. Then, we studied the effect of each parameter on the mechanical behaviour using tensile tests. It was found out that the printing parameters have a significant impact on the mechanical properties, but the tensile speed doesn’t affect the behaviour if the test is made at an environmental temperature.

Risks and use of ERCP during the diagnostic workup in a national cohort of biliary cancer.

In biliary cancer, the indication of endoscopic intervention might be diagnostic as well as therapeutic, in the latter situation with the aim to relieve biliary obstruction e.g. by stenting. Our aim was to investigate the use of endoscopic biliary interventions during the diagnostic workup of biliary cancers in a national cohort, and to evaluate their complications, especially cholangitis and pancreatitis. This is a registry-based study of national cohort of patients with biliary cancers in Sweden 2010-2020. The use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) during the diagnostic work up period before treatment onset, and risk of complications were evaluated in patients with gallbladder cancer, intrahepatic-, perihilar- and distal cholangiocarcinoma. The risk of complications was compared depending on age, sex, comorbidity, in relation to stage and curative intent, endoscopy unit size, and with relation to survival. Forty percent of the patients with biliary cancer underwent ERCP during the diagnostic workup, with variations depending on diagnosis. There was a 20% overall risk of periprocedural complications, a 9% risk of post-ERCP-pancreatitis (PEP), and a 6% risk of cholangitis. Increasing tumor stage did not increase risk, nor did comorbidity. The complication rates were slightly higher for younger patients and those undergoing curative treatment. For perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) treated with curative intention, the risk of periprocedural complications was as high as 30.7%. No association between post-ERCP complications and survival was found. Irrespective of type of biliary cancer, ERCP is frequently used during diagnostic workup. The complication risk indicates that primary biliary cancers are complication prone, regardless of stage. Notably the risk of complications was the highest for younger patients with low comorbidity scores, as well as for patients undergoing curatively aiming treatment.

IMPACT OF BOX-COX TRANSFORMATION TECHNIQUE ON THE BAYESIAN MAXIMUM ENTROPY (BME) PREDICTION ACCURACY

This study investigated whether increasing the normality of an attribute using Box-Cox transformation improves Bayesian Maximum Entropy (BME) prediction accuracy. Furthermore, we examined if BME accuracy is affected by sample size or spatial dependence. For hard data, the unconditional sequential approach was used to simulate symmetric data (skewness = 0) and data positively skewed (skewness: 1, 3, 6, and 9) with sample size ranging from 100 to 500 at the interval length of 50. Soft data was randomly distributed throughout a square of unit size and a width of 1.5. Data was then transformed using Box-Cox transformation. The prediction accuracy was assessed using the Mean Square Error (MSE) and bias, and transformation methods were compared using the Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA). The results showed BME accuracy is affected by transformation methods but not the sample size and the spatial dependency. However, in comparing the transformed data with the untransformed data, the MSE and bias of the untransformed data (lambda = 1) were closer to zero than the transformed data lambda 1. As a result, we concluded that BME is robust to skewness, sample size, and spatial dependency.

Optimal reconfiguration of a distribution network integrated photovoltaic and wind systems using blood-sucking leech optimizer

This paper presents a planning strategy for integrating renewable distributed generation (DG) units into a distribution network, incorporating network reconfiguration to enhance the network's technical, economic, and environmental performance. Utilizing a novel meta-heuristic algorithm, the Blood-Sucking Leech Optimizer (BSLO), the study addresses a multi-objective optimization problem aimed at determining the optimal placement and sizing of DG units, as well as the most effective network topology. This approach seeks to minimize active power losses, improve voltage profiles, reduce installation costs, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The model accounts for variable load demands, climatic factors (such as ambient temperature, solar irradiation, and wind speed), and fluctuating energy prices, reflecting realistic operating conditions. Tested on the IEEE 69-bus distribution network, the BSLO algorithm demonstrated rapid convergence to the global optimum by effectively balancing exploration and exploitation phases. Compared to other meta-heuristic methods, such as the Grey Wolf Optimizer, Gorilla Troops Optimizer, Walrus Optimization Algorithm, and Artificial Hummingbird Algorithm, the BSLO consistently achieved superior accuracy and faster convergence, resulting in higher precision and optimization efficiency. The optimal deployment of two PV generators and two wind turbines, combined with selective line switch openings, resulted in an 87.66% reduction in active power losses, a 73.30% decrease in voltage deviation, a 51.91% reduction in overall system costs, and a 62.74% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the base case.

Enhanced capillary pumping performance of flexible heat pipe device with multi cross-section ultra-thin wick

Copper mesh, with its excellent flexibility and thermal conductivity, is an ideal material for the wick of flexible heat pipe. In this paper, a structure optimization strategy of wick with multi cross-section is proposed to enhance its capillary pumping performance. The analytical solution models of single-section and multi cross-section wicks are established by the kinetic equation of capillary pumping. Numerical simulation is used to analyze the capillary pumping performance of the multi cross-section wicks, and the results confirm the multi cross-section enhancement mechanism with the infrared experimental results. Laser processing, sintering and molding, and super-hydrophilic modification are used to fabricate the multi cross-section wick. Laser removal of rectangular units can modulate the capillary pumping performance of the multi cross-section wick. The capillary height h of the multi cross-section wick is enhanced by 13.4 % when the size of the rectangular unit l × w = 40 mm × 1.5 mm and the number of removals N = 5. Compared with the heat transfer performance of the single cross-section flexible heat pipe, the evaporator temperature T and thermal resistance R of the multi cross-section flexible heat pipe decreased by 16.6 % and 77.4 %, respectively. The effective thermal conductivity Keff reaches 10,560 W/(m·K), which is 26 times higher than that of copper.

A New Parameter-Free Slope Unit Division Method That Integrates Terrain Factors

With increasing research on geological hazards and the development of geographic information technology, slope units play an increasingly important role in landslide susceptibility assessment and prevention work. The scientific and reasonable division of slope units directly impacts the accuracy and practicality of analysis results. Despite the significant progress in slope unit division techniques, most existing methods still have certain limitations, such as a strong dependence on manually set thresholds during the division process, resulting in low levels of automation and efficiency. To address this issue, a new parameter-free slope unit extraction algorithm that integrates terrain factors, called Terrain Factor Parameter-Free Slope Unit Division (TFPF-SU), is introduced. This eliminates the issue of manually setting parameter thresholds during the slope unit division process. This algorithm fully utilizes the terrain information provided by digital elevation models (DEMs) to accurately calculate the curvature, slope, and aspect data for each point. On the basis of the inherent consistency principles among slope, aspect, and curvature, object-oriented image segmentation technology is used to achieve slope unit division. We select Dongchuan District in Yunnan Province, China, as a test area to verify the TFPF-SU algorithm and conduct a detailed comparative analysis and validation of the results with those obtained via traditional hydrological analysis methods from both qualitative and quantitative perspectives. In the quantitative analysis, we utilize the size and shape of the slope units. The results indicate the following: ① the slope units obtained with the TFPF-SU method are more uniform in size, avoiding issues with oversized or irregularly shaped units; ② the slope unit shapes obtained with the TFPF-SU method are more reasonable, with about 70% of the units falling within a reasonable shape index range, compared to only about 32% with the hydrological method; and ③ the slope units produced by the TFPF-SU method align more closely with terrain authenticity, exhibiting a higher degree of topographical conformity.

Angle-insensitive broadband transparent microwave absorber with high shielding effectiveness.

In this work, a specially designed multilayer indium tin oxide (ITO) mesh structure metasurface was proposed as a microwave absorber, achieving both excellent angle-insensitive broadband absorption and high shielding effectiveness (SE). It features gradually changing surface resistance (Rs ), to expand the absorption bandwidth while maintaining high SE. Also, a folded square ring metasurface was designed to effectively suppress surface wave grating lobes, as well as to reduce the unit size of the metasurface and thus the absorber. What is more, an additional top dielectric layer was used to stabilize the absorption and SE under an oblique incidence condition (≤45°). As a result, an ultra-broadband miniaturized transparent absorber was realized, with an absorption of >80% in a 2.10-14.65 GHz frequency band (150% relative bandwidth) and a SE of >20 dB in 1-12 GHz at normal incident. The relative thickness of the absorber is only ∼0.117λ0, and the unit size of the metasurface is only 0.083λ0. The broadband absorption mechanism of the multilayer absorber was analyzed from the aspects of resonance frequency, surface current distribution, and equivalent circuit. In general, the proposed absorber showed angle-insensitive ultra-wideband absorption with high SE at the same time, implying a wide range of applications.

Risk factors associated with thrombocytopenia in systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently manifests with thrombocytopenia (TP), a hematologic complication that heightens the risk of severe outcomes and increases mortality. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the potential risk factors associated with TP in SLE patients, providing insights into the demographic features, clinical features, and laboratory findings that contribute to this condition. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across eight databases from inception to September 1, 2024. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was conducted using univariate and multivariate analyses with Revman 5.3, while heterogeneity was addressed through subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger tests via Stata 15.0. Seventeen high-quality studies meeting the inclusion criteria were incorporated into this meta-analysis. Independent risk factors for TP in SLE included age (Demographic Features), serositis, splenomegaly, blood system involvement, and renal involvement (Clinical Features), as well as cardiac involvement, anemia, leukocytopenia, low C3/C4, ACA, and CRP (Laboratory Findings). Arthritis and rash were protective factors. Subgroup analysis addressed heterogeneity caused by unit and sample size differences. Sensitivity analysis comparing the consistency between fixed-effects model (FEM) and random-effects model (REM) confirmed the reliability of the findings, and both funnel plots and Egger tests suggested no publication bias. This meta-analysis identified several potential independent risk factors for TP in SLE. Early screening and timely intervention for patients with these risk factors are essential to reduce the likelihood of TP, prevent severe organ damage, and improve overall prognosis.

A Review of Hybrid Renewable and Sustainable Power Supply System: Unit Sizing, Optimization, Control, and Management

Since rising worldwide energy consumption is anticipated with increasing rapid industrialization and urbanization, green energy sources have become the ineluctable choice among energy engineers, power engineers, and researchers for carbon-free and sustainable electric power generation. By integrating several energy sources, a hybrid renewable and sustainable power supply system (HRSPSS) has been created to solve the global warming problem. HRSPSS aims to develop contemporary electricity grids that benefit society, the environment, and the economy. However, there is a need for thorough assessment of these complex HRSPSSs for making the most use of renewable energy potential and carefully crafting suitable solutions. This paper provides a thorough investigation of the most effective methods for sizing, optimizing, controlling, and managing energy, as well as how to combine different renewable energy sources to create a hybrid sustainable power supply system. Information on several software simulation tools and optimization methods that have been used to support HRSPSS development, research, and planning is presented in this study. Additionally, this study covers energy management and control strategies that have been used to ensure efficient and optimal operation of HRSPSS. Furthermore, this article presents an extensive comparison among various strategies utilized in each area (sizing, optimizing, controlling, and managing energy) to provide conclusive remarks on the suitable strategies for respective applications. The outcome of this study will help various stakeholders in the energy sector to make appropriate decisions during the design, development, and implementation phases of a hybrid sustainable power supply system.

Functional Units Analysis of Mandibular Morphology in Patients With Parry-Romberg Syndrome.

To characterize mandibular morphology in patients with Parry-Romberg syndrome (PRS). Retrospective study. A craniofacial center. Thirty-three patients with PRS affecting mandible. Preoperative computed tomography data were analyzed using Mimics 26.0 (Materialise Inc.). Distances between landmarks-condyle process (Con), coronoid process (Cor), mandibular foramen (IAF), gonion (Go), and mental foramen-were measured to represent the sizes of skeletal units. Positional asymmetry was reflected by angles between lines connecting bilateral landmarks and the occlusal plane. Bilateral differences in unit sizes were compared. Absolute difference (Δ) > 5 mm and relative size (RS) < 80% were set to evaluate the severity of hypoplasia. Angular measurements were compared to 0° using one-sample t tests. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between onset ages and both RS and angular measurements. The affected side's skeletal units were smaller. Severe hypoplasia was more common in the angular unit. Angles between Con-Con', Cor-Cor', IAF-IAF', and the occlusal plane were less than 0°, whereas the angle with Go-Go' was greater than 0°. Age of onset was positively correlated with the condylar unit size and the Con-Con' to occlusal plane angle. Patients with PRS affecting mandible exhibit smaller skeletal units on the affected side, particularly in the angular unit. Most landmarks on affected side tend to cluster toward the occlusal plane. Earlier onset of PRS correlates with more pronounced condylar asymmetry. Evaluating the severity of functional units involvement and implementing appropriate treatment should be considered.

Sub-millimeter scale 3D integration strategy enables ultrahigh-density and ultralow-crosstalk flexible tactile sensor array for robotic e-skin application

The rapid development of intelligent robots and wearable electronics brings great demand for flexible tactile sensor arrays with high sensitivity, fast response and high spatial resolution. However, simultaneously achieving high sensing performance and low crosstalk remains a fundamental challenge as sensor unit size is further reduced and array density increases. This work proposes a novel design and assembly strategy based on a mechanical microlattice structure, combined with in-situ laser direct writing and batch transfer techniques, to address the challenges from sub-millimeter active material array fabrication to 3D tactile sensor array integration. Additionally, the one-step preparation of high-consistency microcones on flexible substrates during laser direct writing enables the sensor to achieve a high sensitivity of 2.68 kPa−1 and a rapid response time of 50 ms. Both finite element simulation and experiments validate that the meticulously engineered mechanical microlattice structure, which incorporates a multi-material Young’s modulus gradient design, effectively concentrates external pressure on the pressed sensor units while shielding unpressed units, significantly mitigating the crosstalk and facilitating an ultrahigh resolution of ∼ 1 mm. Finally, the multipoint precision detection capability of the fabricated ultrahigh-density (over 113 units/cm2) tactile sensor array is verified as robotic e-skin for object grasping and pattern recognition.